The Kids Wellness Podcast
The Kids Wellness Podcast is your hub for creating happier, healthier lives for children. Hosted by Giselle Shardlow M.Ed., founder of Kids Yoga Stories, this podcast features inspiring guests from all areas of children’s health and wellness. Whether you’re an educator, pediatric therapist, yoga instructor, counselor, parent, or anyone working with kids, each episode offers practical tools, engaging stories, and expert insights to help children thrive emotionally and physically. Join us as we explore easy-to-implement wellness practices to create calm spaces, foster resilience, and support young minds and bodies.
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#042 Mindful Monday - Seize the Beauty
07/28/2025
#042 Mindful Monday - Seize the Beauty
In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you seize the beauty. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage stress. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛
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#041 How to Incorporate Literacy in Children’s Yoga Classes with Melissa Taylor
07/27/2025
#041 How to Incorporate Literacy in Children’s Yoga Classes with Melissa Taylor
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Melissa Taylor, founder of Imagination Soup, a literacy expert and advocate for children's literature, as they discuss ways to integrate books into children's yoga classes and gain insights into fostering a love of reading. Some highlights: -Learn how to effectively integrate children's books into a kids yoga session beyond just yoga-themed books. -Gain recommendations for children's books that incorporate yoga and mindfulness. -Understand the importance of offering book choices to children to capture their attention and foster a love of reading. -Discover ways of incorporating interactive, movement-based activities with story time to improve engagement and comprehension. Find Melissa here: Website: ImaginationSoup.net Book Coaching Website: Instagram: Book Coaching Instagram: Bluesky: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#040 Yoga for Autism and Special Needs with Shawnee Thornton Hardy
07/20/2025
#040 Yoga for Autism and Special Needs with Shawnee Thornton Hardy
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Shawnee Thornton Hardy, founder of Asanas for Autism and Special Needs, as they discuss how yoga practices are making a difference for individuals with autism and special needs. Shawnee generously shares insights and success stories from incorporating yoga into her educational approach with neurodivergent people. Some highlights: - How breathing practices like Dragon's Breath can help with emotion regulation. - Shawnee's journey from a preschool assistant to an educational behavioral specialist. - The importance of compassion and growth in supporting neurodivergent children. - Practical tips for integrating short yoga sessions into daily routines for children with complex needs. Find Shawnee here: Website: Instagram: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#039 Essential Tips for Teaching Baby Yoga with Shari Vilchez-Blatt
07/13/2025
#039 Essential Tips for Teaching Baby Yoga with Shari Vilchez-Blatt
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Shari Vilchez-Blatt, founder of Karma Kids Yoga, as we talk about a common question that we hear from our kids yoga teacher community: "How do we best teach yoga to babies and toddlers?" After teaching yoga for over 20 years, Shari generously shares her journey in teaching baby yoga and lessons she's learned along the way, from teaching mommy + me yoga, baby yoga story time, and baby yoga and development movement classes. If you're thinking about teaching yoga to babies, don't miss this interview, where Shari shares her essential tips and go-to resources. Shari's passion and enthusiasm for baby yoga is contagious! Find Shari here: Website: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Baby Yoga Video: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#038 Mindful Monday - Ground Yourself
07/07/2025
#038 Mindful Monday - Ground Yourself
In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you ground yourself. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage stress. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛
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#037 Raising Resilient Kids: Trust, Risk, and Free-Range Parenting with Lenore Skenazy
07/06/2025
#037 Raising Resilient Kids: Trust, Risk, and Free-Range Parenting with Lenore Skenazy
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Lenore Skenazy, founder of the Free-Range Kids movement and president of Let Grow, as they discuss how Lenore’s parenting choices many years ago sparked a national conversation that’s lasted more than fifteen years. In this interview, she breaks down what it means to trust children’s independence, why fear is so prevalent, and how schools and communities can encourage kids to grow. Some highlights: -The story behind letting her nine-year-old son ride the New York subway alone and the media firestorm that followed. -How trust, rationality, and firsthand reporting shaped Lenore’s parenting approach. -The cultural differences between America and other countries when it comes to raising resilient, independent kids. -Why unstructured, mixed-age free play is a critical component of child development—and how schools can safely make it happen. -Practical steps for parents and educators to break the cycle of constant supervision and encourage agency in children. Find Lenore Skenazy here: Facebook: Facebook Group: RAISING INDEPENDENT KIDS: Instagram: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#036 How to Teach Tween and Teen Yoga Classes with Claire Louise Smith
06/29/2025
#036 How to Teach Tween and Teen Yoga Classes with Claire Louise Smith
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Claire Louise Smith, co-founder of Ambassador Yoga, as they talk about an interesting question for our community of kids yoga teachers and educators-turned-kids-yoga-business-owners: "How do we create effective and engaging tween and teen yoga classes?" Claire draws from her 20 years of experience as a yoga studio owner and creator of tween and teen yoga leadership training to share her essential tips for structuring a successful program for youth. Claire explains that neither the playful games and songs of children's yoga nor the rigorous physical practice of adult classes quite hit the mark for tweens and teens. So, what's the secret? It's about finding that sweet spot in between! Find Claire here: Website: Tween and Teen Yoga Leadership Training: Instagram: YouTube: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#035 Mindful Monday - Meant to be Meditation
06/23/2025
#035 Mindful Monday - Meant to be Meditation
In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you accept the moment with grace. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage stress. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛
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#034 Raising Happy, Healthy Kids: The Microbiome, Vagus Nerve, & Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Elisa Song
06/22/2025
#034 Raising Happy, Healthy Kids: The Microbiome, Vagus Nerve, & Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Elisa Song
Discover the keys to raising happy, healthy kids along with Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Dr. Elisa Song, a Stanford-, NYU-, UCSF-trained integrative pediatrician, pediatric functional medicine expert. Learn practical tips and science-backed strategies for optimizing your child’s microbiome and overall wellness. Some highlights: -The difference between integrative, functional, and conventional pediatrics, and how each approach supports children's health. -What the microbiome is, why it matters for kids’ physical and mental health, and how it affects the gut-brain connection. -The biggest disruptors of a healthy microbiome—like antibiotics, stress, and ultra-processed foods—and what you can do about them. -Simple, actionable steps to improve your child’s gut health, including label reading, the “three Fs” (fiber, phytonutrients, and fermented foods), and mindful supplementation. -Special tips for supporting neurodiverse children, reducing sugar cravings, and empowering kids to own their health choices. Where to find Dr. Elisa Song: Book: Website: Instagram: (@healthykids_happykids) Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#033 How to Apply for a School Yoga Grant with Leslie Wolfe
06/15/2025
#033 How to Apply for a School Yoga Grant with Leslie Wolfe
Join Giselle Shardlow (founder of Kids Yoga Stories) and Leslie Wolfe (PE Teacher and founder of Playful Hearts Yoga) as we talk about a popular topic that we hear from our community: How do I apply for a grant for my school yoga program? We talk with Leslie, who applied for a grant through the American Heart Association (AHA) to start up a school yoga program in her local district. She shares how she found out about the grant, what was included in the application, and what her school yoga program plans are to bring yoga and mindfulness to the local schools. Find Leslie here: Website: Instagram: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#032 Building Confidence and Connection: Essential Tips for New Teachers with Alisha
06/08/2025
#032 Building Confidence and Connection: Essential Tips for New Teachers with Alisha
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Alisha from Rainbow Sky Creations as they talk about how starting out as a new kids yoga teacher can be overwhelming and share invaluable tips and strategies for new teachers. Some highlights: -The importance of keeping lesson plans simple and effective. -How to build strong connections with students by using their names and engaging them as they enter. -Structuring a five-part lesson plan for consistency. -Strategies for managing classroom chaos and staying calm. -Embracing discomfort and unpredictability as essential parts of teaching. About Alisha: Alisha is a seasoned educator and co-host of the teacher podcast Rainbow Skies for New Teachers. With 13 years of classroom experience under her belt, Alisha is also one of the visionaries behind Rainbow Sky Creations, a platform dedicated to empowering and supporting teachers at the start of their careers. Through her passion for education, Alisha strives to offer practical strategies and invaluable insights, making the journey into teaching smoother and more fulfilling for educators everywhere. Find Alisha and Ashleigh here: Website: Instagram: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#031 Simple Mindfulness Tools for Everyday School and Family Life with Sally Arnold
06/01/2025
#031 Simple Mindfulness Tools for Everyday School and Family Life with Sally Arnold
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Sally Arnold, founder of Mindful Compass, as they discuss how mindfulness can make a real difference for children, families, and educators in everyday life. In this interview, Sally shares practical techniques and powerful stories from her global experience teaching mindfulness. Some highlights: -Sally’s unique journey from nursing and psychology to founding Mindful Compass. -Simple, effective mindfulness practices for busy teachers and parents. -Real stories of how mindfulness helped children make positive choices and manage stress. -Overcoming resistance and gaining buy-in from schools and parents. -Strategies for integrating mindfulness school-wide and fostering resilience in students. Find Sally Arnold here: Website: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#030 Mindful Monday - Kindness Meditation
05/26/2025
#030 Mindful Monday - Kindness Meditation
In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you foster kindness. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage stress. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛
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#029 Teaching Mindfulness That Sticks: Creative and Culturally Relevant Approaches with Dr. Chris Willard
05/25/2025
#029 Teaching Mindfulness That Sticks: Creative and Culturally Relevant Approaches with Dr. Chris Willard
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Dr. Chris Willard, a clinical psychologist, best-selling author, international speaker, and mindfulness educator, as they discuss how to bring true depth, creativity, and cultural relevance to mindfulness practices for both children and adults. Chris helps cut through common myths and discusses the practical realities of teaching mindfulness today. Some highlights: -Common misconceptions about mindfulness and what it really is (and isn’t). -How to meet people where they are—whether they're kids, adults, or from diverse backgrounds. -Creative and developmentally appropriate ways to make mindfulness engaging. -The role of mindfulness in handling addiction and screen time, especially for families and young people. -Practical strategies and tips for educators and parents to introduce and model mindfulness effectively.’’ Find Dr. Chris Willard here: Website: Instagram: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#028 How to Engage Children in your Kids Yoga Class with Laura McEgan
04/20/2025
#028 How to Engage Children in your Kids Yoga Class with Laura McEgan
Join Giselle Shardlow (founder of Kids Yoga Stories) and Laura McEgan (founder of Divine Light Yoga) as we talk about a popular topic that we hear from our community: How do we engage children of different ages in a kids yoga class? From her 20 years experience teaching kids yoga, Laura shares her tips of how to capture the focus and attention of different-aged children in her kids yoga classes. She also discusses the factors of why it seems to be more difficult now than ever to capture their attention - similar with children across the globe! Laura's resources that were mentioned in the interview: "" 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#027 How to Integrate Yoga and Mindfulness into Summer Camps with Emily Fleming
05/11/2025
#027 How to Integrate Yoga and Mindfulness into Summer Camps with Emily Fleming
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Emily Fleming, founder of Yoga in Classrooms and School Consulting, as we discuss how to integrate yoga into educational settings, specifically summer camps. Learn how yoga and mindfulness can transform the learning environment and enhance summer camp culture. Some highlights: -Emily's career transition from a classroom teacher to a yoga and mindfulness educator. -The importance of starting with your own practice as a teacher before incorporating it into the classroom. -Strategies for securing summer camp yoga instructor positions. -The significance of customizing yoga and mindfulness programs to fit the needs of education programs. -Real-life success stories showcasing the impact of yoga in schools and summer camps. Find Emily Fleming here: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#026 Mindful Monday - Ordinary Moments Meditation
05/05/2025
#026 Mindful Monday - Ordinary Moments Meditation
Seek out the ordinary moments in life. In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you cultivate inner peace and embrace the ordinary moments in life. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage stress. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#025 The Importance of Teacher Self-Regulation with Allison Morgan
05/04/2025
#025 The Importance of Teacher Self-Regulation with Allison Morgan
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Allison Morgan, founder of Zensational Kids, as they discuss integrating mindfulness and SEL in education. Discover practical strategies and insights into enhancing both student and teacher wellbeing. Some highlights: -Allison Morgan’s professional background and journey into combining yoga with occupational therapy. -The impact of COVID-19 on educational practices and mindfulness in schools. -Key practices for teachers to manage their own stress and enhance classroom environments. -The role of self-regulation in effective teaching and learning. -Practical advice for educators on starting small with mindfulness practices in their SEL curriculum. Find Allison here: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#024 Overcoming Teacher Burnout: Boundaries and Positive Mindset with Grace Stevens
04/27/2025
#024 Overcoming Teacher Burnout: Boundaries and Positive Mindset with Grace Stevens
Join us as Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, interviews Grace Stevens, host of the Balance Your Teacher Life Podcast, about essential strategies for setting boundaries in teaching. Learn how to manage stress, promote self-care, and maintain a positive classroom environment. Some highlights: - Importance of self-regulation and control for teachers - Strategies for setting healthy boundaries and saying "no" - The significance of self-care and reflecting on personal interests - The "ECHO" framework for educator empowerment - Integrating gratitude and mindfulness into the classroom Find Grace here: (affiliate) 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#023 Heartful of Peace: Music, Movement, Mindfulness Resource for Educators with Abby Wills
04/20/2025
#023 Heartful of Peace: Music, Movement, Mindfulness Resource for Educators with Abby Wills
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Abby Wills, founder of Shanti Generation and co-creator of Heartful of Peace, as they explore the evolution of Abby’s impactful work in kids yoga and mindfulness. Tune in to discover Abby latest project, "Heartful of Peace," a free music, movement, and mindfulness resource for educators. Some highlights: • Evolution of Abby's work and recent focus on supporting educators and organizations. • Insights into the growth of kids yoga and its widespread impact. • The creation and features of the "Heartful of Peace" children's music album and resources. • Abby's collaboration with key projects and community initiatives. • The importance of simplicity, authenticity, and community in Abby's approach. Find Abby here: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#022 Mindful Monday - Embrace Uncertainty
04/14/2025
#022 Mindful Monday - Embrace Uncertainty
Embrace uncertainity in very uncertain times! In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you cultivate inner peace and embrace where you are at this moment. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and manage the wild ride that is our world right now. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛
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#021 What the Research Says About Mindfulness for Educators with Susan Dryer Leon
04/13/2025
#021 What the Research Says About Mindfulness for Educators with Susan Dryer Leon
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Susan Dreyer Leon, director of the Mindfulness for Educators and Trauma Informed Education Programs at Antioch University, as they discuss the importance of mindfulness practices in education. Discover practical insights and strategies that can help educators thrive in challenging environments. Some highlights: -The inception and development of the Mindfulness for Educators program at Antioch University -Benefits of mindfulness practices for teachers and the research supporting it -Practical mindfulness techniques teachers can implement in their classrooms -Addressing systemic challenges in education that mindfulness alone cannot resolve -Reflective practice and the importance of self-compassion for educators Find Susan here: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#020 Why Mindfulness Teachers Are Essential in Schools with Liz Frink
04/06/2025
#020 Why Mindfulness Teachers Are Essential in Schools with Liz Frink
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Liz Frink, founder of Mindfulness with Miss Liz, as they talk about the transformative benefits of mindfulness in schools based on her own capstone research paper. As a former early childhood educator, Liz shares her journey and insights into implementing mindfulness techniques to enhance student wellbeing and learning in classrooms. She explains how her research highlights the importance of hiring trained Mindfulness Teachers, not just adding more to the classroom teacher's plate. Some highlights: -Importance of a calm state for effective learning -Role of Mindfulness Teachers in supporting school staff -Diverse mindfulness activities for students -Addressing teacher burnout and systemic challenges -Advocacy for tailored, non-politicized social-emotional learning programs Find Liz Frink here: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#019 Building Bridges: Effective Communication Between Parents and Teachers with Kelsey Sorensen
03/31/2025
#019 Building Bridges: Effective Communication Between Parents and Teachers with Kelsey Sorensen
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Kelsey Sorensen, founder of Educate & Rejuvenate, as they discuss bridging the gap between teachers and parents. Discover practical advice and insights for fostering better communication and support in the educational community. Some highlights: -Difference between self-abandonment and selfishness. -Tips for effective teacher-parent communication. -Kelsey's "Educate and Rejuvenate" book and additional resources. -Importance of self-care for parents and teachers. -Real-life examples and personal stories for inspiration. Find Kelsey here: Kelsey’s book on : (affiliate) Book 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#018 Mindful Monday - Calm Meditation
03/24/2025
#018 Mindful Monday - Calm Meditation
Cultivate calm and start your week off right. 🌿✨ In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you cultivate inner peace. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and bring more calm into your day. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛 Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#017 Coping Skills for Kids: Practical Tips from School Counselor with Janine Halloran
03/23/2025
#017 Coping Skills for Kids: Practical Tips from School Counselor with Janine Halloran
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Janine Halloran, mental health counselor and founder of Coping Skills for Kids, as they explore effective coping skills for kids. Learn practical strategies to help children manage their emotions and thrive. Some highlights: -Discover the "rainbow grounding" technique to stay present -The importance of personalized and flexible self-care routines -Creative self-care strategies during crises like the pandemic -Using play and silliness to engage children in therapy -Proactive planning to manage anxiety and strong emotions Find Janine here: Website: Counselor Website: Store: Coping Skills Community Hub: hub.copingskillsforkids.com Podcast: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#016 Meet Kid Conservationist: Kids Yoga Video Creator & Children's Author with Jack Dalton
03/16/2025
#016 Meet Kid Conservationist: Kids Yoga Video Creator & Children's Author with Jack Dalton
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Jack Dalton, the fourteen-year-old Kid Conservationist who is making a massive impact in environmental activism. Jack shares his journey that took him from a zoo visit in Tennessee to the jungles of Indonesia in his quest to save orangutans. From his experiences, he created a kids yoga video, which he then adapated into a children’s book, Kawan the Orangutan Lost in the Rainforest! Jack's story shows how passion and dedication can make a difference at any age. Some highlights: -Jack's journey from a homeschool lesson to founding a conservation movement. -How connecting with a baby orangutan sparked a mission to save an endangered species. -The pivotal role his supportive parents played in facilitating his endeavors. -Insider details about his book, Kawan the Orangutan: Lost in the Rainforest. -Exciting upcoming projects and travels for Jack, including a trip to Costa Rica. Find Jack here: Website: YouTube: Instagram: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#015 How Mindfulness Helps Children Navigate Attention and Distraction with Lindsay Miller
03/09/2025
#015 How Mindfulness Helps Children Navigate Attention and Distraction with Lindsay Miller
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and Lindsay Miller from The Stress Nanny (a kids mindfulness coach and host of The Stress Nanny Podcast) as they talk about the significance of mindfulness in helping both adults and children to boost their attention skills. Some highlights: -Attention and Distraction in Kids: Discover the link between increased screen time, post-pandemic behaviors, and how it's impacting children's attention spans. -Mindfulness Techniques for Kids: Lindsay breaks down easy, practical methods to teach mindfulness to children, helping them stay present and focused. -Montessori Approach: Learn how respect for concentration and uninterrupted focus can make a difference in children's learning and attention. -Creative Mindfulness Exercises: From sensation-emotion pillows to nature collages, get inspired with fun ways to engage kids in mindfulness practices. -Understanding Emotions with Brain Science: Lindsay shares fascinating insights about the "upstairs brain" and "downstairs brain" to help kids manage their reactions and stress. Find Lindsay here: Website: Instagram: Facebook: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#014 Mindful Monday - Set Intention Meditation
03/03/2025
#014 Mindful Monday - Set Intention Meditation
Start your week with intention. ✨ In this special Mindful Monday, Giselle guides you through a simple yet powerful practice to help you set an intention for the week. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this meditation is a perfect way to reset, refocus, and bring more gratitude into your day. Take a deep breath, settle in, and let’s begin. 💛 Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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#013 How to Create Inclusive Environments for Black Kids with SonJoria Sydnor
03/02/2025
#013 How to Create Inclusive Environments for Black Kids with SonJoria Sydnor
Join Giselle Shardlow, founder of Kids Yoga Stories, and SonJoria Sydnor of Our Family's Doing Yoga, and as they talk about an important topic for our yoga community: "How do we create inclusive, accessible spaces for black kids in our kids yoga classes?" Some highlights: - SonJoria's journey from educator to creating a yoga book for black kids. - The role of authenticity and cultural representation in enriching yoga experiences for children. - Practical advice for non-black people on authentically including black kids in yoga and classrooms. - Insights into SonJoria's family's yoga resources and their mission to increase concentration and self-regulation among children. - Strategies for educators and authors to incorporate diversity and authenticity in their materials and teachings for a more inclusive approach. Find SonJoria here: Website: YouTube: Facebook: Instagram: 🧘🏽♂️🧘♀️🧘🏿♀️ Kids Yoga Stories, a mom-run and mom-operated business, was founded in 2012 by former classroom teacher and certified yoga instructor Giselle Shardlow. During her travels and time teaching grades kindergarten through fifth grade in Guatemala, Australia, Canada, and the United States, Giselle witnessed the need to address childhood illiteracy, obesity, and stress. She blended her passions of yoga, mindfulness, and education to create books, card decks, and educational resources to provide classroom teachers, school staff, coaches, and parents with the tools to bring yoga and mindfulness to children everywhere. Connect with us: Instagram: Website: Shop:
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